TSC Upper Cumberland Academy and Academy Lite Programs are designed to provide an introduction and building experience into club soccer. Each player will be challenged in a fun, safe, professional coaching environment so that each player will reach their own potential. The focus is on ball mastery and skill/technique development.
UPPER CUMBERLAND
Academy /
Academy Lite
BOYS | GIRLS | U7-U12
To positively impact the community by creating a culture rooted in our values while promoting a love for soccer for players at every level.
Learn & Develop
ACADEMY LITE OVERVIEW
Overview
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Player Pathway: Phase of player pathway transitioning from Recreation to competitive teams
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Training Structure: Players train 1 day per week with their Academy Lite Team and 1 day per week with their Recreational Team
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Game Structure: Players train play games with their Recreational Team regularly with additional games, tournaments, and events with their Academy Lite Team
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Player Development: Structured, periodized curriculum focused on the technical skills and tactical awareness, while introducing the physical fitness and mental aspects of game
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Top Level Coaching: Licensed, experienced coaches
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Player-Centered Culture: A more holistic approach to youth sports providing opportunities to grow beyond the soccer field through TSC Cares
Commitment
- Fall – 4-month (Aug. – Nov.)
- Spring – 4-month (Feb. – May)
- Training 2 times a week (1 with Academy Lite, 1 with Recreational Team)
- Weekly games when in season
ACADEMY OVERVIEW
Overview
- Player Pathway: First phase of player pathway in competitive environment
- Player Selection: Players are evaluated through tryouts and annual performance to be placed in pools at each level
- Player Development: Periodized curriculum focused on technical skills, confidence on the ball, and basic tactical awareness
- Top Level Coaching: Licensed, experienced coaches with backgrounds at the youth, collegiate, and national levels
Commitment
- 10-month (Aug. – May)
- Training occurs Two (2) per week
- Games on weekends when in season
- Two (2) tournaments per season (Fall/Spring)
- Travel will mostly be local and/or within Tennessee
Academy Coaching Staff
Jason Gentry
TSC Upper Cumberland Director
Logan Fisher
Academy Director
UPPER CUMBERLAND ACADEMY COACHES
Academy FAQ
What is the TSC Academy?
Our U7 through U12 Academy Program is an alternative to the traditional recreational and select (traveling) team programs and offers the opportunity for advanced development of the young soccer player. This program is a league for boys and girls ages 7-12 years old.
Why play for the Academy vs Recreational Soccer?
Academy soccer emphasizes maximum development of individual skills and provides the opportunity to apply those skills in a competitive environment. Young players with commitment, skills and attitude will find Academy Soccer to be a good introduction to TSC Competitive program.
What is the time commitment?
Team training occurs twice weekly with games on weekends. Additional training opportunities along with speed, strength and agility training will be offered. The Academy teams will participate in 2-3 tournaments per season.
Is the Academy year-round?
No, our Academy programs play from August through May, however, we understand players may play alternative sports in the winter also.
Who coaches the Academy teams?
All teams are trained by appropriately licensed, professional Club coaches to provide the players with the best possible foundation of skills and knowledge of the game.
Who will the Academy teams play?
Throughout the season, games will be played against other TSC Academy teams and against other local clubs’ Academy teams.
Does the Academy create teams from birth year or grade level?
TSC Academy age groups will be based on a player’s birth year, per US Soccer guidelines.
How do I join?
Evaluations for Academy teams are held according to the state soccer calendar, usually in late May. Recreational players, and players who are not registered with any other club in Tennessee, can join Tennessee Soccer Club at any time during the year.

